The UK government wants to turn streetlights into 5G beacons to strengthen networks and improve connectivity across the country.
The government’s Smart Infrastructure Pilot Program (SIPP), announced by Sir John Whittingdale, UK Secretary of State for Data and Digital Infrastructure, during London Tech Week, aims to strengthen networks, particularly in rural areas.
Through this program, local governments will be able to implement advanced digital architecture such as smart street lighting.
electric car charging
The initiative is a joint program between the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Department for Transport (DfT) and will provide up to £1.5m of funding to six local authorities. The authority will then match with smart service providers to procure and test these smart lampposts.
However, smart streetlights will be more than just 5G beacons. These will be designed to provide not only mobile network connectivity, but also public Wi-Fi, electric vehicle charging, and public safety and environmental monitoring. The Government believes local authorities can achieve significant cost savings and improve community connectivity.
Minister for Technology and Decarbonization, Jesse Norman, said: “By turning streetlights and other road infrastructure into smart devices such as public Wi-Fi points, the Government is transforming everyday transport infrastructure for a greener, cleaner future. We’re investing in any way we can.” “This program will increase connectivity across the country and increase access to electric vehicle charging, helping us reach our net zero goals.”
Applications for the Smart Infrastructure Pilot Program are open to all eligible UK local authorities. The application deadline is Friday, July 7th at midnight. If you are interested, read this Learn how to participate in the Smart Infrastructure Pilot Program (SIPP) competition. Funding for this project will come from the Shared Outcomes Fund awarded by HMT.
